As the weather warms up now is the perfect time to encourage kids and entire families to head outside. Even short periods of time in nature can have a life-changing impact on your health.
“There are many benefits of getting out into nature. It’s hardwired into our systems because there is a really primitive response to hearing the birds chirping and feeling the breeze on your face,” says SSM Health Family Physician Dr. Roopa Shah. “Getting out into nature and getting sunlight can help really reset our circadian rhythms for the day which, in fact, can help our overall health, our immune function and also improve our sleep.”
Circadian rhythms are physical, mental, and behavioral changes that follow a 24-hour cycle. These natural processes respond primarily to light and dark and affect most living things, including animals, plants, and microbes.
“The circadian rhythm regulates metabolism too and just keeps us functioning optimally,” says Dr. Shah. “There are a lot of things involved, but sleep is one of the big benefits that you get from a better circadian rhythm.”
Not only can getting more time outside give you more restful sleep, but peace of mind as well. Struggle with anxiety or depression? Venture out to a nearby park, walking path or your own backyard.
“Just watching the squirrels play can be very soothing and relaxing. It can help reduce overall anxiety and even with depression. Getting out into nature, we get a little boost of dopamine and serotonin which are these naturally occurring happy hormones, so we always feel better after going on a nice walk or little jog through nature,” says Dr. Shah.
While you’re out getting a little sun and exercise, Dr. Shah says you may consider bringing the kids and creating some teachable moments.
“We all know that getting outside is great for your health, but another new trend is plogging. It’s walking or a jogging while picking up litter in your neighborhood,” she says with a smile. “You’re teaching your kids to care for their neighborhood and their community, caring how that neighborhood looks and giving them a sense of responsibility to keep their neighborhood clean and just really give them ownership of that as well.”
